Here’s what you need to know about the ‘2+1 Highway’ coming to Ontario

A new highway is coming to Ontario and it’s the first of its kind in North America.

The project is called a “2+1 Highway” and according to the provincial government, it will make roads safer and improve traffic flow.

Basically, a 2+1 highway is a three-lane highway with a passing lane in the middle that changes direction approximately every two to five kilometres.

“The highway model is used in other jurisdictions around the world and is more cost efficient than twinning a highway,” says a press release from Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation.

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Unfortunately for GTA drivers, the road will be located in northern Ontario, where the new infrastructure is also very much needed.

It will be located on Highway 11 north of North Bay and will first be launched as a pilot project before it can become permanent.

The three-lane road will run for 14 kilometres from Sand Dam Road to Ellesmere Road.

The province is also considering a second location, which would run for 16 kilometres along Highway 11 from Highway 64 to Jumping Caribou Lake Road.

Last week, the province issued a request for proposals (RFP) for the pilot.

This request is for qualified design consultants to submit their proposals for design and environmental assessment by the Ministry.

Consultants have until December to submit their proposals, and the province will evaluate submissions and announce the successful bidder next year.

“This first of its kind highway pilot in North America will keep people and goods moving safely across Northern Ontario,” said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation in the press release.

‘Winter driving conditions can be severe in Northern Ontario,” said the Mayor of North Bay, adding that it will “help the residents of North Bay drive safer.”